On the grapevine

Social worker: As I said before, I’m quite happy to dress up for next week’s kids’ summer party, but I don’t see why me and Jerry can’t go as Noddy and Big Ears again.

Family centre manager: We can’t afford to do anything that might be seen as racist after last year – and you know how the Golliwogs were portrayed as criminals in Toytown. Besides, none of the kids know who Noddy and Big Ears are these days.

SW: So, who do you propose we come as then?

FCM: Transformers

SW: Sorry?

FCM: You know, the cars that turn into robots like the ones in the Citroen car advert. There’s a film out about them at the moment – kids love them.

SW: And how exactly do we dress up as cars that turn into robots?

FCM: I don’t know – use your initiative. Study your car and then get to work with some cardboard boxes.

SW: There’s not much about a 1974 Fiat 500 that looks like it’s about to turn into a robot, but I’ll give it a go.

FCM: Good – and can you spread the word to anyone else coming on Thursday? Right, I’m off for a Pig meeting.

SW: A what? Please don’t say we’ve having animals at the kids’ party. Remember what happened with the donkey at the Christmas one?

FCM: As if I could forget that! We were lucky to not end up in court. My Pig meeting is a Project Innovation Group meeting – some of us have a day job too you know!

SW: Tell me about it. Not sure when I’ll fit designing a Transformer costume in between now and next Thursday with my caseload. Looks like I’ll be busy with cardboard and sticky tape this weekend

FCM: Talking about the Transformers again, can you just be aware of the race issue.

SW: Sorry? Aren’t we talking about cars here?

FCM: Yes, but can you just make sure at least one of them is black. Just to be safe

Our website uses cookies, which are small text files that are widely used in order to make websites work more effectively. To continue using our website and consent to the use of cookies, click click 'Continue'. Find out more.